R.D. \Steve\"" Stevens, Sr.

R.D. "Steve" Stevens,74, died Sunday, December 27, 2009 from Congestive heart failure at CMMC in Jackson. Visitation will be 5-8pm Tuesday, December 29, 2009 at Chancellor Funeral Home in Byram. Services will be 10am Wednesday, December 30, 2009 in the funeral home Chapel followed by interment at Cedar Crest Cemetery.\ \ He was born in Yazoo County on November 3, 1935. He was a resident of Raymond and was a retired maintenance supervisor of 28 years for the City of Jackson Water Plant.\ \ Survivors include his beloved wife of 47 years, Beth Stevens of Raymond, one son R.D. Stevens, Jr. of Raymond; one daughter, Resie S. Taylor, and son-in-law, Allyn Taylor, both of Crystal Springs. He had five beloved grandchildren, Ashley Law, Harley Stevens, Brandi Barwick, Dalton Taylor, and Tiffany Taylor. He is also survived by one brother, Robert Stevens, and three sisters, Rosella McMurry, Kanita Ashley, and Carmen Thurman and lifelong friend, Billy Benson.\ \ He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Annie Ree Stevens and nine siblings.\ \ Pallbearers will be Billy Benson, Butch Hand, Larry Pell, Paul Stevens, Steve Usry, and Justin Baker.\ \ Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Crystal Springs Youth Fund, or to French Camp Academy.\ \ Our father will always be remembered most for his giving heart and willingness to always help someone in need. We will greatly miss his bountiful gardens which were filled with fresh vegetables. His grandchildren will miss their 4-wheeler rides with Papaw through the woods and going fishing with him on a warm summer day. His wife will miss his constant daily call of her name "Beth?", the gruff exterior and the teddy bear interior. He will be remembered as a fighter when it came down to his health, and believe me he fought to the end. We will always remember and love you my dearest father, grandfather, husband, and friend. May your light shine forever.\ \ The family wishes to express special thanks to Dr. Michael Payment and staff of 2 S.E., Central MS. Medical Center.\